The Mnweni Circuit through Rockeries Pass – Drakensberg Hike
Event Date: 6th – 8th July 2023
Start: Mnweni Cultural Center
Finish: Mnweni Cultural Center
Duration: 45 km over three days and two nights, 100kms – 4900m Ascent
Fitness: Moderate fitness level required but could be challenging
Beauty: 4/5
Our tip: take extra pairs of socks as the weather is unpredictable
The Mnweni Circuit Trail is a multi-day hiking route located in the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa. This challenging trail is known for its stunning scenery, remote wilderness areas, and rugged terrain.
The Mnweni Circuit Trail is typically completed in four to five days (We choose to do the hike over 2 nights and 3 days) and covers a distance of approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) if you choose to start and end at the MCC. Hikers can start the trail in either direction and will encounter a variety of landscapes, including grasslands, forests, rivers, and rocky mountain passes.
One of the highlights of the Mnweni Circuit Trail is the stunning views of the Mnweni Valley and the surrounding peaks. The trail also passes by several cultural and historical sites, such as the Mnweni Rock Art and the San Cave, which provide insight into the rich history and traditions of the local Zulu people.
Hikers should be prepared for challenging terrain and altitude, as the trail reaches heights of over 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) above sea level. Proper gear, food, and water are essential, as well as knowledge of high-altitude hiking and its associated risks, including altitude sickness.
Overall, the Mnweni Circuit Trail is a challenging and rewarding adventure that offers hikers the opportunity to explore some of the most spectacular scenery in South Africa while immersing themselves in the rich culture and history of the region.
Here are some additional details about what you can expect on the trail:
- Trail Difficulty: The Mnweni Circuit Trail is considered a difficult trail due to its rugged terrain, steep ascents and descents, and high altitude. Hikers should have a good level of fitness and experience with multi-day hiking trips before attempting this trail.
- Trail Markings: The Mnweni Circuit Trail is not a well-marked trail, and hikers should be prepared to navigate using maps, compasses, and GPS devices or better yet use a guide. There are some cairns and trail markers along the way, but they are not consistent or reliable.
- Trail Accommodations: There are no huts or lodges along the Mnweni Circuit Trail, so hikers must bring their own camping gear and supplies. There are several designated campsites along the trail, but they do not have any facilities or amenities.
- Trail Permits: We secure permits for all Hikers interested in doing this hike with/through us before embarking on the Mnweni Circuit Trail. Permits are limited, so it is recommended to book well in advance.
- Best Time to Hike: The best time to hike the Mnweni Circuit Trail is during the South African winter months (May to September) when the weather is cooler and drier. Hiking during the summer months (November to February) can be challenging due to the hot and humid conditions.
Overall, the Mnweni Circuit Trail is a challenging but rewarding hiking experience that offers stunning scenery and a unique cultural and historical perspective. It is an adventure that requires careful planning, preparation, and experience, but it is one that is sure to create lasting memories. So get those glutes ready as you’ll be embarking on some serious inclines and descends.
Cost: R1500 pp
What’s Included:
– Guiding Fee
– Hiking Permit Accommodation
– 1 Night Campsite accommodation at the MCC (Night before Hike)
What’s Excluded (Not Included)
-Luggage Transfer/Porterage (Not available)
-Transport (You transport yourself to the venue)
– Feeding
-Alcohol
-Equipment (We however have hiking gear to rent)
If you have any queries or suggestions, Just send us an email or shoot us a message on WhatsApp: +27 78 949 6008
Carry as little as possible, but choose the little with care. 
𝙉𝙤𝙩𝙚: 𝙎𝙥𝙤𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙫𝙖𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩.
𝐏𝐀𝐘𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐍-𝐑𝐄𝐅𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄.
𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙬𝙖𝙥 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙩𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙧.
The hike is scheduled for 6th – 8th July 2023. The 5th is the day of arrival and the night will be spent at The Mnweni Cultural Center.
𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬
Day 1: Mnweni Cultural and Hiking Centre to Shepard’s Cave
Total time: +/- 6hours
Total distance: +/- 17km
Total Ascent: +/- 750m
Day 2: Shepard’s Cave to Ledges Cave via Mnweni Pass
Total time: +/- 6hours
Total distance: +/- 10km
Total Ascent: +/- 1400m
Day 3: Ledges Cave to Mnweni Cultural Centre via Rockeries Pass
Total time: +/- 7hours
Total distance: +/- 18km
Total Descent: +/- 1400m
Note: It’s important to note that this route outline is just one possible itinerary and can be adjusted based on your preferences and abilities. Be sure to check local conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on your hike and always prioritize safety.
Here are some additional tips for completing the Mnweni Circuit Trail in 3 days:
1- Start early: It’s important to start early each day to make the most of the daylight hours and ensure that you have enough time to complete each section of the trail.
2- Pace yourself: While it’s important to maintain a relatively fast pace to complete the trail in 3 days, it’s also important to pace yourself and take breaks as needed to rest and refuel.
3- Carry enough water: There are several water sources along the trail, but it’s important to carry enough water to last between each source. As a general rule, hikers should aim to carry at least 2-3 liters of water per day.
4- Pack light: It’s important to pack light and carry only the essentials for the trail. This will help to reduce fatigue and make it easier to cover more distance each day.
5- Be prepared for the weather: The weather in the Drakensberg Mountains can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and weather conditions. Hikers should be prepared for cold, windy, and rainy weather, and carry appropriate gear to stay warm and dry.
By following these tips and maintaining a positive attitude, hikers can complete the Mnweni Circuit Trail in 3 days and experience some of the most stunning landscapes in South Africa.
Trail Map
At a glance
Highlights: The Mnweni rockeries route offers stunning views of the Mnweni Valley and the surrounding mountains, including the Cathedral Peak and the Mnweni Pinnacles. The Rockeries Pass is a challenging but rewarding ascent that offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The camping spots along the trail are located in beautiful and remote locations, offering a true wilderness experience.
